Welcome Back, Spring!

It’s official! Spring has sprung at Elon University. Here at The Edge, we are more than thrilled to welcome back days of laying in the sun on Young Commons or in front of Lake Mary Nell (with some homework thrown in, of course).

This is the first spring on campus for first years, but the second first spring for sophomores, whose semester was cut short by the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic last year.

We won’t ever get sick of that 75 and sunny springtime weather. Photo by Callista DeGraw.

Although much is different, the core of spring at Elon remains the same. For those of you experiencing this semester for the first time ever—or just for the first time in a while—we’ve collected advice and tips for making the most of your time in the sun.

The good news is, even though we still have to distance and wear masks, spending time outside really does lend itself to being Covid-safe. Plus, Elon has actively been doing more to make hanging out with friends or doing homework outside more accessible, such as the addition of more Adirondack chairs to sit in, hammock poles for those lucky ENO owners, and portable fire pits.

Junior Kara Friske says that the part of the spring at Elon that makes her the happiest is seeing all of the trees and flowers in bloom. Friske is a team leader for Elon Outdoors and spends her spring weekends hiking. Elon Outdoors is continuing to safely run trips this semester, which is another great way for Elon students to get outside and enjoy the weather.

Friske’s advice to first years and sophomores in their first spring semester at Elon is to, “Take advantage of the warm weather to safely socialize with friends! Also bring a light jacket or sweatshirt because sometimes the weather switches quickly.”

Haley Covington, a sophomore, is excited to finally get to experience this semester because she’s always heard that spring at Elon is beautiful.

Although some of us have killer allergies, we’re spending as much time as possible in the springtime sun. Photo by Callista DeGraw.

“Since I’m an acting major, I’m really excited to see all of the spring performances, which didn’t get to happen last year,” explains Covington. She also says that she’s grateful she can spend final moments with senior friends and is happy their goodbyes won’t be cut short this year.

We also know that for some, the spring semester can prove more challenging academically than the fall. Add in a year-long global pandemic, and things can really get tough. While spending time outside is proven to help alleviate stress, it’s important to remember to take care of yourself in whatever way is best for you.

Share how you’re taking advantage of the gorgeous weather by tagging @theedgemag on Instagram!